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Virginia high school seniors will be able to graduate in 2020

High school seniors who are on track to graduate this year will be able to receive their diplomas even though schools are closed for the rest of the school year.

RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Department of Education released updates on graduation requirements and high school credits a day after Governor Northam directed all schools to close for the remainder of the academic year.

Northam announced on Monday that all K-12 schools in Virginia will stay closed for the remainder of the school year in order to combat the spread of COVID-19.

Dr. James Lane, the state's Superintendent of Public Instruction, has issued guidance to ensure that 12th-grade students who are on track to graduate will receive their diplomas regardless of the school closures.

Also, students who have completed a majority of the required standards to be promoted to their next grade levels will be promoted.

VDOE has waived certain requirements that would normally be adhered to in order for high school seniors to graduate:

  • Students currently enrolled in a course for which they need a standard or verified credit in order to graduate;
  • Students who have successfully completed a course required for graduation, but have not earned the associated verified credit;
  • Students who have not completed the student-selected test;
  • Students who are currently enrolled in or have previously completed a course leading to a CTE credential necessary for a Standard Diploma but have not yet earned the credential;
  • Students who have not completed a United States and Virginia history course*;
  • Students who have not completed a fine or performing arts or career and technical education course*;
  • Students in the second of sequential courses*;
  • Students who have not completed an economics and personal finance course*.

You can find more information on guidance and waived requirements for other grade levels here.

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